FCT Minister says comment about Channels TV anchor Seun Okinbaloye was exaggerated frustration, not a literal threat, amid condemnation from Amnesty International.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has moved to defuse outrage over his controversial remark suggesting he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye, insisting the statement was never meant to be taken literally.

The comment, made during a media chat, triggered widespread criticism, with Amnesty International describing it as “reckless and violent” amid growing concerns about press freedom and political rhetoric in Nigeria.

In a clarification issued through his media aide, Lere Olayinka, Wike said the remark was an expression of frustration rather than a threat. According to the statement, the minister was reacting to Okinbaloye’s comments on the implications of a one-party system for Nigeria’s democracy.

Olayinka explained that Wike, who holds the journalist in high regard, was disappointed to see him veer into what he described as political commentary instead of maintaining a strictly interview-focused role.

“The minister did not intend to imply that he would shoot Seun Okinbaloye,” the statement said, adding that both men have since spoken directly and reached a mutual understanding over the incident.

The aide further stressed that the remark was made in a hyperbolic manner to underscore a point, noting that even during the live broadcast — which featured senior Channels Television journalist Chamberlain Uzor — the comment was received with laughter after Wike clarified his intent.

Wike’s camp also warned against what it described as attempts to weaponise the comment for political gain, urging the public to disregard interpretations that portray the statement as a genuine threat.

Despite the clarification, the incident has continued to stir debate over the tone of public discourse and the responsibilities of political leaders when addressing the media.